Congenital cytomegalovirus pneumonia presents as pleural effusion in infancy

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Congenital Infections

Background:

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a common congenital infection.
• Congenital CMV can lead to significant neonatal morbidity.
• Early recognition is vital for managing potential complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight a case of congenital CMV presenting as neonatal pneumonitis.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of an infant with respiratory distress since birth.
• Clinical examination, chest radiography, and contrast-enhanced CT of the thorax.
• Laboratory evaluation including CMV IgM antibodies and urinary CMV PCR.
• Audiological assessment for hearing loss.

Main Results:

• Infant presented with respiratory distress, bilateral pleural effusion, malnutrition, and microcephaly.
• Radiographic findings included diffuse haziness and interstitial pattern.
• CT revealed ground glass opacities, peribronchial thickening, and atelectasis.
• Diagnosis confirmed by positive CMV IgM and high viral load in urine.
• Bilateral moderate hearing loss was identified.

Conclusions:

• Congenital Cytomegalovirus can manifest as severe neonatal pneumonitis.
• Early diagnosis through clinical and laboratory evaluation is critical.
• Timely treatment can prevent permanent end-organ damage, including hearing loss.